Lincoln’s effort to keep more food dollars in the community is bearing fruit. The city’s second‑annual Mayor’s Local Food Challenge more than doubled the number of participating businesses, schools, hospitals and nonprofits, moving from 21 organizations last year to 50 this year.

Mayor highlights economic impact

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced the results at Open Harvest Co‑op Grocery on Monday, noting that the 50 participants placed a total of 1,331 orders for food produced within 250 miles of Lincoln. Those orders amounted to over $694,000 in spending, supporting 70 regional farmers and suppliers and reinforcing a local food system that benefits the entire community.

Why the challenge matters

Although Nebraska ranks among the nation’s top agricultural states, city officials say Lincoln still imports roughly 90% of the food it consumes. The challenge is designed to reverse that trend by connecting local producers with organizations that want to differentiate themselves with fresh, locally sourced products.

“The challenge gives the participants an opportunity to differentiate themselves,” said Justin Jones, co‑owner and general manager of Lone Tree Foods. “It gives them an opportunity to diversify their supply and make their food special.”

Broad community involvement

This year’s roster included a mix of restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals and nonprofit groups. Notable participants were Open Harvest, Hy‑Vee, Bryan Health, CHI Health St. Elizabeth and several local eateries.

Chloe Diegel, co‑owner and farm manager of Robinette Farms, emphasized the broader benefits: “That growth matters. It means more customers and stronger markets for farmers, more opportunities for small food businesses and more dollars staying in our local economy.”

Program structure and future outlook

The challenge ran from July 1 through October 31. Organizations were recognized at varying commitment levels based on the number of local food orders they placed. City officials say the program has already inspired a similar statewide initiative through the Nebraska Department of Education.

With participation on the rise, city leaders are optimistic about building on this momentum and keeping an even larger share of food dollars within Lincoln’s economy in the years ahead.

Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.